How does math relate to photography?

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Quick Answer

Photographers use math in a variety of contexts, and they must be comfortable with fractions, geometry and basic arithmetic. For example, when adjusting the aperture of a lens, which determines how much light enters the camera, the photographer must be able to compare fractions to determine which one is larger than the other. Additionally, the framing of shots relies on geometry as well as artistic ability.

According to Chron, determining the amount of light that the camera allows inside is a complicated process. Three different variables affect the amount of light, and they all counteract each other. The size of the aperture is measured in f-stops, which are the focal length of the lens divided by the aperture opening. When the aperture is large, more light enters the camera. Additionally, the ISO speed determines how quickly the camera reacts to light, while the shutter speed controls how long light is allowed into the lens.

When framing a shot, many photographers try to line up the subject with one of several imaginary lines that overlay the shot. Typically, photographers imagine three horizontal lines and three vertical lines crossing the frame. The subject should be placed on one of the junctions that the lines make.